Greek Beef Stew with a Modern Twist

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:

For the Stew:

2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup beef broth (or stock)
1/2 cup red wine (optional but adds depth)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (the twist – adds warmth and complexity)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a modern, smoky note)
1/2 tsp cumin (a subtle hint of spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Modern Twist:

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon (brightens the flavors)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot in batches, searing the beef on all sides until browned (about 5-6 minutes per batch). Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, thyme, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cumin, allowing the spices to bloom for 1-2 minutes.
3. Simmer the Stew:

Return the seared beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Stir to combine.
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
4. Add the Potatoes:

Add the diced potatoes to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Continue simmering until the potatoes are tender.
5. Finish with the Modern Twist:

Stir in the Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh mint just before serving.
Squeeze the lemon juice over the stew for a fresh burst of acidity that lifts the dish.
6. Serve:

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with additional fresh mint, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or extra olives if desired.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich, flavorful broth.
Why the Twist Works:
The Kalamata olives and feta cheese bring a salty, briny contrast that complements the richness of the beef and spices.
Mint adds a fresh, aromatic note, balancing the heaviness of the dish.
Lemon juice brightens the flavors, giving it that zesty Mediterranean flair.
The smoked paprika and cinnamon infuse the stew with a modern smoky warmth that adds depth to the traditional Greek flavors.
This Greek Beef Stew with a Modern Twist brings new life to a classic, combining the rustic, comforting qualities of the original with fresh, bold, and bright Mediterranean elements. Perfect for cozy dinners or to impress at your next dinner party!